Heatwave Affects Whole of the Peninsula and Balearic Islands

Well, this weekend the whole of Spain and the Balearic Islands have been sweltering under the extreme heat of a heatwave originating in Africa that is set to last until Tuesday at least, according to the AEMET.

Although it may not seem like it, as we’ve been experiencing a number of bouts of uncharacteristically hot weather, this is actually the first heatwave that we’ve seen so far this year.

More than 20 provinces are on the yellow warning risk for maximum temperatures this weekend, including Cádiz, Granada, Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona, Ibiza, Valencia and Murcia.

However, even hotter than these areas, and on the orange warning alert, (serious risk) are Madrid, Jaén, Huelva, Córdoba and Seville. In the last two provinces mentioned, temperatures will exceed 40⁰C.

The Valencia Region will also experience temperatures of up to 39⁰C.

This heatwave has been caused by a mass of very hot air that entered Spain towards the end of last week, according to AEMET. It penetrated the west and south of the country and has gradually moved upwards and spread across to the islands in the east, getting hotter and hotter as it continues its journey.

AEMET defines a heatwave as an episode lasting at least three days where temperatures higher than the average recorded in July and August are reached.

Since 1975, a total of 80 heatwaves have been recorded, which is an average of two every 12 months. The worst, in terms of excessive heat and humidity, took place in July and August in 2003.

This phenomena lasted 16 days and ended up affecting 38 provinces.

During extreme weather like this, it is best to stay cool and in the shade during the hottest parts of the day. Drink plenty of water and ensure that you are hydrated throughout the day.

Source: www.elpais.com